Online Instruction and E-Learning

Goals:

  1. Develop an understanding of basic e-learning principles including:
    1. Synchronous vs. Asynchronous
    2. Blended Learning
    3. Learning (Content) Management System(L(C)MS) vs. Content Management System(CMS)

  1. Familiarize participants with 1 or more examples of E-Learning resources available online.
  2. Remember that E-Learning is not "in addition to", but rather "instead of" or "an alternative to" traditional learning modes.

E-Learning Tools:

  • Articulate Presenter - an easy to use tool that integrates with PowerPoint to create e-learning.
  • TechSmith - a site with several tools including Jing/Snagit screen capture(either still picture or video with narration), Screencast for synchronous learning
  • Adobe Captivate - similar to Articulate, but allows you to create Demonstrations using the software like I did with Edublogs

Some sites to explore in creating E-learning

  • Moodle- an online LMS that is completely free, if you can host it at your school. Very versatile.
    • Use this guide to get started. Keep in mind it was borrowed from the University of St. Thomas and includes some parts that you cannot do. BUT it'll get you started playing with Moodle. moodle_guide0001.pdf
  • Sophia - a social learning site locally grown(twin cities). Think educational YouTube, sorta.
  • Lodestar software that allows you to create e-learning very very rapidly. Includes pre-built slides, games, and is exportable to LMSes like Moodle or rSchools.
  • Curriki - an online repository for lessons and e-learning items
  • Thinkfinity - an online repository for lessons. Does include some non-online elements.
  • Dreamweaver - a website authoring program, not for the faint of heart, lets you do it all
  • rSchools - the Farmington web hosting program has some uses for e-learning. The "multi-content" and "custom" pages can be leveraged for e-learning. Be Creative!